Modular patient monitor

ABSTRACT

A modular patient monitor provides a multipurpose, scalable solution for various patient monitoring applications. In an embodiment, a modular patient monitor utilizes multiple wavelength optical sensor and/or acoustic sensor technologies to provide blood constituent monitoring and acoustic respiration monitoring (ARM) at its core, including pulse oximetry parameters and additional blood parameter measurements such as carboxyhemoglobin (HbCO) and methemoglobin (HbMet). Expansion modules provide blood pressure BP, blood glucose, ECG, CO2, depth of sedation and cerebral oximetry to name a few. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure also include a transport dock for providing enhanced portability and functionally to handheld monitors. In an embodiment, the transport dock provides one or more docking interfaces for placing monitoring components in communication with other monitoring components. In an embodiment, the transport dock attaches to the modular patient monitor.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 14/733,781,filed Jun. 8, 2015, entitled “Modular Patient Monitor,” which is acontinuation of application Ser. No. 13/039,218, filed Mar. 2, 2011,entitled “Modular Patient Monitor,” which is a continuation ofapplication Ser. No. 12/973,392, filed Dec. 20, 2010, entitled “ModularPatient Monitor,” which claims priority benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) from U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/405,125, filed Oct. 20,2010, entitled “Modular Patient Monitor,” U.S. Provisional ApplicationNo. 61/288,843, filed Dec. 21, 2009, entitled “Acoustic RespiratoryMonitor,” U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/290,436, filed Dec. 28,2009, entitled “Acoustic Respiratory Monitor,” U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 61/407,011, filed Oct. 26, 2010, entitled “IntegratedPhysiological Monitoring System,” and U.S. Provisional Application No.61/407,033, filed Oct. 27, 2010, entitled “Medical Diagnostic andTherapy System,” which are incorporated herein by reference in theirentirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The disclosure relates to the field of physiological monitors, and morespecifically to a modular monitoring system.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Patient monitoring of various physiological parameters of a patient isimportant to a wide range of medical applications. Oximetry is one ofthe techniques that has developed to accomplish the monitoring of someof these physiological characteristics. It was developed to study and tomeasure, among other things, the oxygen status of blood. Pulseoximetry—a noninvasive, widely accepted form of oximetry—relies on asensor attached externally to a patient to output signals indicative ofvarious physiological parameters, such as a patient's constituentsand/or analytes, including for example a percent value for arterialoxygen saturation, carbon monoxide saturation, methemoglobin saturation,fractional saturations, total hematocrit, billirubins, perfusionquality, or the like. A pulse oximetry system generally includes apatient monitor, a communications medium such as a cable, and/or aphysiological sensor having light emitters and a detector, such as oneor more LEDs and a photodetector. The sensor is attached to a tissuesite, such as a finger, toe, ear lobe, nose, hand, foot, or other sitehaving pulsatile blood flow which can be penetrated by light from theemitters. The detector is responsive to the emitted light afterattenuation by pulsatile blood flowing in the tissue site. The detectoroutputs a detector signal to the monitor over the communication medium,which processes the signal to provide a numerical readout ofphysiological parameters such as oxygen saturation (SpO2) and/or pulserate.

High fidelity pulse oximeters capable of reading through motion inducednoise are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,096,054, 6,813,511, 6,792,300,6,770,028, 6,658,276, 6,157,850, 6,002,952 5,769,785, and 5,758,644,which are assigned to Masimo Corporation of Irvine, Calif. (“MasimoCorp.”) and are incorporated by reference herein. Advanced physiologicalmonitoring systems can incorporate pulse oximetry in addition toadvanced features for the calculation and display of other bloodparameters, such as carboxyhemoglobin (HbCO), methemoglobin (HbMet),total hemoglobin (Hbt), total Hematocrit (Hct), oxygen concentrations,glucose concentrations, blood pressure, electrocardiogram data,temperature, and/or respiratory rate as a few examples. Typically, thephysiological monitoring system provides a numerical readout of and/orwaveform of the measured parameter.

Advanced physiological monitors and multiple wavelength optical sensorscapable of measuring parameters in addition to SpO2, such as HbCO, HbMetand/or Hbt are described in at least U.S. patent application Ser. No.11/367,013, filed Mar. 1, 2006, entitled Multiple Wavelength SensorEmitters and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/366,208, filed Mar. 1,2006, entitled Noninvasive Multi-Parameter Patient Monitor, assigned toMasimo Laboratories, Inc. and incorporated by reference herein. Pulseoximetry monitors and sensors are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,782,757entitled Low Noise Optical Probes and U.S. Pat. No. 5,632,272 entitledSignal Processing Apparatus, both incorporated by reference herein.Further, noninvasive blood parameter monitors and optical sensorsincluding Rainbow™ adhesive and reusable sensors and RAD-57™ andRadical-7™ monitors capable of measuring SpO2, pulse rate, perfusionindex (PI), signal quality (SiQ), pulse variability index (PVI), HbCOand/or HbMet, among other parameters, are also commercially availablefrom Masimo Corp. Acoustic respiration sensors and monitors aredescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,661,161 entitled Piezoelectric BiologicalSound Monitor with Printed Circuit Board and U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 11/547,570 filed Jun. 19, 2007 entitled Non-Invasive Monitoringof Respiration Rate, Heart Rate and Apnea, both incorporated byreference herein.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

A modular patient monitor provides a multipurpose, scalable solution forvarious patient monitoring applications. In an embodiment, a modularpatient monitor utilizes multiple wavelength optical sensor and/oracoustic sensor technologies to provide blood constituent monitoring andacoustic respiration monitoring (ARM) at its core, including pulseoximetry parameters and additional blood parameter measurements such ascarboxyhemoglobin (HbCO) and methemoglobin (HbMet).

Expansion modules provide measurement and/or processing of measurementsfor blood pressure BP, blood glucose, electrocardiography (ECG), CO2,depth of sedation and cerebral oximetry to name a few. The modularpatient monitor is advantageously scalable in features and cost from abase unit to a high-end unit with the ability to measure multipleparameters from a variety of sensors. In an embodiment, the modularpatient monitor incorporates advanced communication features that allowinterfacing with other patient monitors and medical devices.

Aspects of the present disclosure also include a transport dock forproviding enhanced portability and functionally to handheld monitors. Inan embodiment, the transport dock provides one or more dockinginterfaces for placing monitoring components in communication with othermonitoring components. In an embodiment, the transport dock attaches tothe modular patient monitor.

The modular patient monitor is adapted for use in hospital, sub-acuteand general floor standalone, multi-parameter measurement applicationsby physicians, respiratory therapists, registered nurses and othertrained clinical caregivers. It can be used in the hospital to interfacewith central monitoring and remote alarm systems. It also can be used toobtain routine vital signs and advanced diagnostic clinical informationand as an in-house transport system with flexibility and portability forpatient ambulation. Further uses for the modular patient monitor caninclude clinical research and other data collection.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Throughout the drawings, reference numbers may be re-used to indicatecorrespondence between referenced elements. The drawings are provided toillustrate embodiments of the disclosure described herein and not tolimit the scope thereof.

FIGS. 1A-1C illustrate front and rear perspective views and an explodedview of an embodiment of a modular patient monitor 100 having a modularconfiguration;

FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate side and rear views of a modular patient monitorembodiment 200 having an attached stand;

FIGS. 2C-2D illustrate front and rear perspective views of an embodimentof the modular patient monitor having two handheld monitors attached tothe docking station with each handheld monitor in a differentorientation;

FIGS. 2E-2G illustrate front and rear perspective views and an explodedview of the modular patient monitor embodiment of FIGS. 2C and 2Dattached to a mounting arm;

FIGS. 2H-2J illustrate rear perspective, exploded, and side views,respectively, of another embodiment of the modular patient monitor

FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate perspective views of an embodiment of a transportdock;

FIG. 3C illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of atransport dock;

FIG. 3D illustrates a perspective views of another embodiment of atransport dock with a multi-size docking port;

FIG. 3E illustrates a perspective views of another embodiment of atransport dock with an attached docking arm;

FIGS. 4A-4D illustrate embodiments of a monitoring tablet;

FIGS. 4E-4F illustrate perspective and exploded views, respectively, ofa monitoring tablet embodiment having multiple expansion slots;

FIGS. 5A1-5E illustrate docking station embodiments capable of receivinga transport dock, monitoring tablet, and/or handheld monitor;

FIG. 6 illustrates a front view of the embodiment of the modular patientmonitor of FIGS. 2H-2J, displaying measurements for parameters acrossmultiple displays;

FIG. 7 illustrates a general block diagram of a physiological monitoringfamily;

FIGS. 8A-E are top, front, bottom, side and perspective views,respectively, of a handheld monitor embodiment;

FIGS. 9A-D are top, front, side and perspective views, respectively, ofa tablet monitor embodiment;

FIGS. 10A-E are top, front, side, perspective and exploded views,respectively, of a 3×3 rack embodiment with mounted display modules;

FIGS. 11A-E are top perspective, front, side, and exploded views,respectively, of a 1×3 rack embodiment with mounted monitor, controland/or display modules;

FIGS. 12A-D are top, front, side and perspective views, respectively, ofa large display and display bracket;

FIGS. 13A-B are perspective and exploded views of another embodiment ofa modular patient monitor;

FIG. 13C illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a 3×1docking station;

FIGS. 14A-B illustrates an embodiment of the monitor module of FIG.13A-13B used in combination with a single port dock; and

FIG. 15 illustrates an embodiment of a single port dock.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate front and rear views of an embodiment of amodular patient monitor 100 having a modular configuration, one or morehandheld 110 units and a configurable docking station 120. FIG. 3Aillustrates an exploded view of the patient monitor 100 embodiment. Thedocking station 120 can include a primary patient monitor 105 integratedwith the docking station or that attaches mechanically and/orelectrically to the docking station via a docking port. In oneembodiment, the docking station does not include a primary patientmonitor 105.

One or more handheld monitoring devices can attach mechanically and/orelectrically with the docking station 120 via one or more docking ports135. In one embodiment, mechanical attachment is accomplished through areleasable mechanism, such as locking tabs, pressure fit, hooks, clips,a spring lock or the like. In one embodiment, the docking ports 135provide a data interface, for example, through its electricalconnection. In one embodiment, the electrical connection can providepower to the monitoring device. The handheld 110 docks into a dockingarm 130 of the docking station 120, providing the modular patientmonitor 100 with additional functionality. In particular, the handheld110 can provide a specific set of clinically relevant parameters. Forexample, the handheld 110 supports various parameters that areconfigured to specific hospital environments and/or patient populationsincluding general floor, OR, ICU, ER, NICU, to name a few. In oneembodiment, docking the handheld 110 into the docking station 120 allowsaccess to additional available parameters and provides increasedconnectivity, functionality and/or a larger display 122. A multi-monitorpatient monitor is described in U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/641,087 titled Modular Patient Monitor, filed Dec. 17, 2009,incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

In one embodiment, the docking station 120 includes a plurality ofdocking ports 135 of identical or standard size, interface, and/orconfiguration. Each docking port can accept different monitoringcomponents with a corresponding standard connector. In one embodiment,different types of monitoring components, such as a handheld monitor 110or module dock 140, can be interchangeably connected to differentdocking ports 135. For example, in a first configuration, a firstdocking port receives the handheld monitor 110 and a second docking portreceives the module dock 140, while in a second configuration, the firstdocking port receives the module dock 140 and the second docking portreceives the handheld monitor 110. By providing interchangeable dockingports, users of the modular patient monitor 100 have greater ability tocustomize the monitor 100 according to their needs. For example, if moredisplays are needed then additional docking ports can receive displaysor handheld monitors but if more parameters are desired or need to bemonitored, then additional docking ports can receive module docks and/orexpansion modules. In one embodiment, docking ports 135 incorporate USB,IEEE 1394, serial, and/or parallel connector technology.

A docking arm 130 can be detachably connected or integrated with thedocking station and/or monitoring component, such a handheld monitor 110or module dock. In one embodiment, a docking arm 130 attachesmechanically and/or electrically to a handheld monitor 110 on one endand attaches mechanically and/or electrically to a docking port 135 ofthe docking station 120 on another end. In one embodiment, the dockingarm 130 is configured to orient the display of the handheld monitor 110in a particular orientation. For example, the docking arm 130 can orientthe handheld monitor 110 in the same direction as a main display 122 orcan angle the handheld monitor 110 in order to display parameters inother directions. In some embodiments, the handheld monitor 110 may beoriented at an angle (e.g. 30, 60, 90 degrees, or the like) from themain display 122, vertically, horizontally, or in a combination ofdirections. The handheld monitor 100 can be oriented at an angle towardsthe front or back of the main display 122. In one embodiment, thedocking arm 130 is movable and configurable to a variety oforientations. In one embodiment, the docking arm 130 comprises a swiveljoint, ball joint, rotating joint, or other movable connector forallowing the docking arm 130 to rotate, twist, or otherwise move anattached monitor 110. For example, the movable connector can rotate onone or more axis, allowing the attached monitor 110 to be oriented inmultiple directions. In some embodiments, monitoring components can bedirectly attached to the docking station without using a docking arm130.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 1A and 1B, the docking station120 is rectangular shaped, having a display on one side, a mountingconnector on the opposite side, and four docking ports 135 on the top,bottom, and side edges of the docking station 120. In other embodiments,additional or fewer docking ports 135 can be included on the dockingstation 120. In some embodiments, the docking ports 135 can provideelectrical and/or mechanical connections to handheld monitors 110,module docks 140 with one or more module ports, expansion modules 150and/or other monitoring components. The monitoring components can attachto a docking port 135 via a docking arm 130 or directly to the port 135.For example, the docking station 120 can include an expansion module 150or a module dock 140 that accepts plug-in expansion modules 150 formonitoring additional parameters or adding additional monitoringtechnologies. For example, an expansion module 150 can enable monitoringof electroencephalography (EEG), blood pressure (BP), ECG, temperature,and/or cardiac output. In one embodiment, measurements taken by themonitor are processed by the expansion module. In some embodiments, theexpansion module provides attachments for sensors and receivesmeasurements directly from the sensors.

In one embodiment, the module dock 140 functions as a stand for themodular patient monitor 100. In another embodiment, the stand isindependent of the module dock 140. In one embodiment, the modularpatient monitor 100 provides standalone multi-parameter applications,and the handheld 110 is detachable to provide portability for patientambulation and in-house transport.

In one embodiment, the module dock 140 provides an interface forexpansion modules 150, provides charging for expansion modules 150,and/or interconnects multiple expansion modules by providing acommunications medium for data communications between expansion modulesand/or other components. For example, the module dock 140 can provide adata interface with a patient monitor or docking station 120, allowingdata to be transmitted to and from the expansion modules. In oneembodiment, the module dock 140 operates independently of the dockingstation 120. In one embodiment, the module dock includes a wirelesstransmitter and/or receiver for communicating wirelessly with thepatient monitor or docking station 120.

The handheld monitor 110 and/or primary patient monitor 105 can providepulse oximetry parameters including oxygen saturation (SpO₂), pulse rate(PR), perfusion index (PI), signal quality (SiQ) and a pulse waveform(pleth), among others. In an embodiment, the handheld 110 and/or primarypatient monitor 105 also provides measurements of other bloodconstituent parameters that can be derived from a multiple wavelengthoptical sensor, such as carboxyhemoglobin (HbCO) and methemoglobin(HbMet). In one embodiment, the handheld 110 and/or primary patientmonitor 105 has a color display, user interface buttons, an opticalsensor port and a speaker. The handheld 110 and/or primary patientmonitor 105 can include external I/O such as a bar code reader andbedside printer connectivity. The handheld 110 and/or primary patientmonitor 105 can display additional parameters, such as Sp_(v)O₂, bloodglucose, lactate to name a few, derived from other noninvasive sensorssuch as acoustic, fetal oximetry, blood pressure and ECG sensors to namea few. In an embodiment, the handheld unit 110 and/or primary patientmonitor 105 has an active matrix (TFT) color display, an optionalwireless module, an optional interactive touch-screen with on-screenkeyboard and a high quality audio system. In another embodiment, thehandheld 110 is a Radical® or Radical-7™ available from MasimoCorporation, Irvine Calif., which provides Masimo SET® and MasimoRainbow™ parameters. A color LCD screen handheld user interface isdescribed in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/846,472 entitledPatient Monitor or User Interface, filed Dec. 22, 2006 and U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 11/904,046 entitled Patient Monitor User Interface,filed Sep. 24, 2007, both applications incorporated by reference hereinin their entirety.

In an embodiment, controls on the docking station 120 and/or the dockedhandheld 110 provide controls for the modular patient monitor 100. Forexample, the controls can included buttons for alarm suspend/silence andmode/enter, a trim knob to toggle thru screen menus, and other controlssuch as next, up, down or across page navigation, parameter selectionand entry, data entry, alarm limit selection and selection of probe-offdetection sensitivity. As a secondary control method, the modularpatient monitor 100 can include a port for an external keyboard forpatient context entry and to navigate the menu. In an embodiment, thedocking station has a touch screen, for example, the display 122 or adocked handheld monitor 110 can provide touch screen functionality. Inan embodiment, the modular patient monitor 100 has a bar code scannermodule adapted to automatically enter patient context data.

The modular patient monitor 100 can include an integral handle 155 forease of carrying or moving the monitor 100 and dead space for storagefor items such as sensors, reusable cables, ICI cable and cuff, EtCO₂hardware and tubing, temperature disposables, acoustic respiratorysensors, power cords and other accessories such as ECG leads, BP cuffs,temperature probes and respiration tapes to name a few. The monitor 100can operate on AC power or battery power. The modular patient monitor100 can stand upright on a flat surface or can allow for flexiblemounting such as to a monitor arm or mount, an anesthesia machine,bedside table and/or computer on wheels. In one embodiment, the dockingstation 120 includes a Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA)mount for attaching stands, monitor arms, or other mounting devices.

In one embodiment, the docking station 120 can have its own stand-alonepatient monitoring functionality, such as for pulse oximetry, and canoperate without an attached handheld monitor 110. The docking stationreceives patient data and determines measurements to display for amonitored physiological parameter.

One or more of handheld monitors 110 can be docked to the dockingstation 120. When undocked, the handheld monitor 110 operatesindependently of the docking station 120. In some embodiments, aparticular handheld monitor can be configured to receive patient dataand determine parameter measurements to display for a particularphysiological parameter, such as, for example, blood pressure, otherblood parameters, ECG, and/or respiration. In one embodiment, thehandheld monitor can operate as a portable monitor, particularly whereonly some parameters are desired or need to be measured. For example,the handheld monitor, while providing patient monitoring, can travelwith a patient being moved from one hospital room to another or can beused with a patient travelling by ambulance. Once the patient reacheshis destination, the handheld monitor can be docked to a docking stationat the destination for expanded monitoring.

In some embodiments, when a handheld monitor 110 is docked to thedocking station 120, additional parameters can become available fordisplay on the main display 122. Upon receiving additional measurements,the docking station 120 can reorganize and/or resize existingmeasurements on the display 122 to make room for measurements of theadditional parameters. In some embodiments, a user can select whichmeasurements to display, drop, and/or span using the controls on thedocking station 120. In some embodiments, the docking station 120 canhave an algorithm for selecting measurements to display, drop, and/orspan, such as by ranking of measurements or by display templates.

In order to expand display space on the main display 122, measurementscan be spanned across the main display 122 and the displays on thehandheld monitors 110. In one embodiment, the measurements can bespanned by displaying a partial set of the measurements on the maindisplay 122 and additional measurements on the handheld monitors 110.For example, the main display 122 can display some measurements of aparameter, such as a numerical value, while the handheld monitor 110displays additional measurements, such as the numerical value and anassociated waveform.

Alternatively, measurements can be spanned by mirroring on the maindisplay 122 the handheld monitor display. For example, portions of themain display 122 can display all or some of the measurements on ahandheld monitor display, such as a numerical value and a waveform.

In one embodiment, the main display 122 can take advantage of itsgreater size relative to handheld monitor displays to display additionalmeasurements or to display a measurement in greater detail whenmeasurements of a physiological parameter are spanned. For example,portions of the main display 122 can display numerical values and awaveform while a handheld monitor display shows only a numerical value.In another example, the main display 122 can display a waveform measuredover a longer time period than a waveform displayed on the handheldmonitor, providing greater detail.

In some embodiments, the main display 122 displays a set of measurementswhen the modular patient monitor 100 is operating independently (e.g. anumerical value and a waveform), but only a partial set of themeasurement when docked to the docking station (e.g. numerical value),thereby freeing up display space on the handheld monitor's display.Instead, the remaining measurements (e.g. waveform) can be displayed onthe docking station display. In some embodiments, the partialmeasurement (e.g. numerical value) on the portable monitor is enlargedto increase readability for a medical professional. In some embodiments,the handheld monitor display can show the partial measurement in greaterdetail or display an additional measurement.

In some embodiments, data is transmitted between components of themodular patient monitoring system, such as a patient monitor, handheldmonitors 110 and/or expansion modules 150 through a data connection. Thedata can be transferred from one component through the docking station'sdocking port and then to another component. In one embodiment, a cablecan be used to connect an input on one component to an output on anothercomponent, for a direct data connection. Data can also be transmittedthrough a wireless data connection between the docking station 120 andcomponents and/or between individual components. In some embodiments,the docking station can further analyze or process received data beforetransmitting the data. For example, the docking station can analyze datareceived from one or more monitors and generate a control signal foranother monitor. The docking station can also average, weight and/orcalibrate data before transmitting the data to a monitor.

Data from other monitoring components can be used to improve themeasurements taken by a particular monitoring component. For example, abrain oximetry monitor or module can receive patient data from a pulseoximetry monitor or module, or vice versa. Such data can be used tovalidate or check the accuracy of one reading against another, calibratea sensor on one component with measurements taken from a sensor fromanother component, take a weighted measurement across multiple sensors,and/or measure the time lapse in propagation of changes in a measuredphysiological parameter from one part of the body to another, in order,for example, to measure circulation. In one example, a monitor candetect if the patient is in a low perfusion state and send a calibrationsignal to a pulse oximetry monitor in order to enhance the accuracy ofthe pulse oximetry measurements. In another example, data from a pulseoximetry monitor can be used as a calibration signal to a blood pressuremonitor. Methods and systems for using a non-invasive signal from anon-invasive sensor to calibrate a relationship between the non-invasivesignal and a property of a physiological parameter are described in U.S.Pat. No. 6,852,083, entitled System and Method of Determining Whether toRecalibrate a Blood Pressure Monitor, issued Feb. 8, 2005, incorporatedby reference herein in its entirety. Of course, other information fromone monitor of any type can be used to enhance the measurements ofanother monitor.

FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate side and rear views of a modular patient monitorembodiment 200 having an attached stand. In the illustrated embodiment,the stand 205 attaches to the docking station 120 via a mount 210, suchas a VESA mount. In FIGS. 2A and 2B, the handheld monitor 110 attachesto a docking arm 215 configured to orient the handheld monitor displayat an approximately 90 degree angle to the main display 122. Bypositioning the handheld 110 in a different orientation than the maindisplay 122, users, such as health professionals, can view theparameters on display from different positions in a location, such as ahospital room or operating room. For example, a surgical team in a firstposition operating on a patient can view parameters on one display whilean anesthesiologist monitoring the patient in a second position can viewparameters on the handheld display. In some embodiments, the parameterson the handheld display can be different than the parameters on the maindisplay, for example, where health professionals are concerned with orare monitoring different parameter sets.

Relative to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the main display 122 and stand 205 areconfigured in portrait mode, where the height of the display is greaterthan the width, as opposed to landscape mode, where the width of thedisplay is greater than the height. In one embodiment, the main display122 may be rotated from portrait mode to landscape mode and vice versa.

FIGS. 2C and 2D illustrate front and rear perspective views of anembodiment of the modular patient monitor 230 having two handheldmonitors 235, 240 attached to the docking station 120 with each handheldmonitor in a different orientation. The modular patient monitor 230 caninclude a module dock 140 attached to the docking station 120.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first handheld monitor 235 is facinga different direction than the main display 122, and a second handheldmonitor 240 faces approximately the same direction as the main display122 and angled upwards. In one embodiment, the main display 122 ispositioned at eye-level of a health professional and the second handheldmonitor 240 below the main display 122 is angled upwards towards theview of the health professional. In one embodiment, the second handheldmonitor 240 can be placed above the main display 122 and angled downwardtowards the view of the health professional.

In one embodiment, the second handheld monitor 240 can function as atouch screen input device for the primary monitor when attached to thedocking station 120. For example, the handheld monitor 240 can displaymonitor controls in addition to or instead of parameter values. In oneembodiment, a user can select the display mode of the handheld monitor.

In one embodiment, the second handheld monitor 240 is attached to atransport dock 245 having an integrated handle. In one embodiment, thetransport dock 245 can attach or detach to a docking port on the dockingstation and serves as a portable carrier for one or more handheldmonitors and/or other monitoring components. Embodiments of thetransport dock 245 are described in further detail below.

FIGS. 2E and 2F illustrate front and rear perspective views of themodular patient monitor embodiment 230 of FIGS. 2C and 2D attached to amounting arm 250. In one embodiment, the handle 255 can allow a user tomove the patient monitor 230 into different positions and/ororientations. FIG. 2G illustrates an exploded view of the patientmonitor 230 embodiment.

In one embodiment, the module dock 140 can receive different sizes ofexpansion modules. For example, modules can be 1× size 240, 2× size 265or 3× size 270. In one embodiment, larger modules provide greatermeasurement capability and/or processing power. For example, a 3× modulecan measure more parameters, provide more detailed monitoring of aparameter, and/or track more complex parameters relative to a 1× module.In one embodiment, an expansion module can include a display 275 on anexposed portion of the module to display parameter measurements, modulestatus, and/or other information.

FIGS. 2H-2J illustrate rear perspective, exploded, and side views,respectively, of another embodiment of the modular patient monitor 255.A front view of the embodiment is shown in FIG. 6. In this embodiment,the modular patient monitor 255 includes a docking station 260 with oneor more displays 262 and/or portable monitors having displays 265attached. The display 262 can be integrated with the docking station ordetachable. The illustrated docking station 260 is generally elongatewith docking mechanisms for one or more displays 262 and/or portablemonitors 265 on the front (e.g. user facing side) of the docking station260. In the illustrated embodiment, the docking station's 260 frontsurface is a generally convex surface configured to attach to generallyconcave docking surfaces of the display 262 and/or portable monitors265. The docking station's rear facing surface can also be generallyconvex.

A module dock 270 can be integrated or detachably connected to thedocking station 260. The module dock 270 can provide mechanical and/orelectrical connections to one or more expansion modules 267. In FIGS.2H, 2I, and 2J, the module dock 270 is attached to the bottom facingside of the docking station; however, other configurations, such asbeing attached to the sides or the top of the docking station 260, arepossible.

The rear facing side of the docking station 260 can include or attach toa connector assembly 275, 277 for attachment to a stand, mount, mountingarm 272, or the like. In one embodiment, the connector assembly caninclude a pin, hinge, swivel mechanism or the like for allowing rotationof the docking station 260 along a horizontal and/or vertical axis.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate perspective views of an embodiment of atransport dock, carrier dock or transport cradle 300. In one embodiment,the transport dock 300 serves as a holder, cradle or a carrier for ahandheld monitor 110. For example, the transport dock 300 can include anattachment mechanism to a bed frame, stand, ambulance interior, and orother mounting surface. In one embodiment, the transport dock 300expands the capability of a handheld monitor 110 by, for example,providing docking ports for expansion modules 150. In some embodiments,the expansion modules 150 includes a display 305 on one side, where thedisplay remains exposed even after the expansion module is docked.

In one embodiment, the transport dock 300 is roughly a rectangular boxshape and can include one or more docking ports 310, 320 on one or morefaces or on one or more sides. The docking ports 310, 320 can receiveone or more expansion modules 150 and/or one or more handheld monitors110. For example, the front of the transport dock can include a dockingport 320 for receiving eclectically and/or mechanically the handheldmonitor 110. A display can be part of the transport dock. Alternatively,the display can be part of the handheld monitor. In the illustratedembodiment, the body of the transport dock 300 includes two expansiondocking ports 310 for two expansion modules 150. In the illustratedembodiment, the docking ports 310 are arranged behind the handheld dock320 in order to more efficiently use space and reduce the length of theassembled transport dock. The transport dock 300 can further include anintegrated handle 330 for enhancing the portability of the transportdock 300. In one embodiment, the transport dock 300 is attachable to adocking station 120, for example, via a docking port 130.

In the illustrated embodiment, the expansion module 150 is configuredfor ease of installation and removal from the transport dock 300. Anextraction handle 332 can be provided on the exposed side of theexpansion module when docked. The extraction handle can be made ofrubber or other high friction material. Raised textures can be formed onthe surface of the extraction handle 332 to increase friction. In oneembodiment, the extraction handle 332 is integrated into the expansionmodule and can include a cable port for receiving a cable connector 334.In another embodiment, the extraction handle 332 is part of the cableconnector 334 and attaches to the expansion module 150 through a lockingmechanism, such as a tab, latch or pin system. In one embodiment, thelocking mechanism to the expansion module 150 can be articulated bypushing the cable connector 334 into the extraction handle 332 or byotherwise moving the connector relative to the handle. In someembodiments, a docking port 336 on the expansion module can be generallylinearly aligned with an extraction handle 332 to allow the expansionmodule 150 to be pulled out of the transport dock 300 by applying anoutward linear force on the extraction handle 332. The transport dock300 can include a locking mechanism 338 that may need to be releasedbefore removing the expansion module 150.

The transport dock 300 can provide additional portability and/orfunctionality to a handheld monitor 110. For example, the transport dock300 can increase the parameter monitoring capability of the handheldmonitor 110 by providing an interface and/or data connection with theone or more expansion modules 150. In one embodiment, the expansionmodules 150 for attachment to the transport dock 300 and connection tothe monitor 110 can be selected based on the intended use. For example,a transport dock 300 for use with a patient with head trauma can includea EEG module while a transport dock 300 for use with a heart patient caninclude a cardiac output module. In one embodiment, the transport dockmodule 300 can provide an additional power source to the handheldmonitor 110.

FIG. 3C illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of atransport dock 340. The transport dock 340 includes a multi-moduledocking port 345 within the body, with an opening on one edge of thebody for receiving multiple expansion modules 150. In one embodiment,the transport dock 340 includes another multi-module docking port 345 orother docking port for another monitoring component 350. For example,the monitoring component 350 can be a power source, such as a battery,for providing power during portable operation of the handheld monitor.The transport dock 340 includes docking port 355 for a mechanicallyand/or electrically receiving the handheld monitor 110 and a handle 360.

FIG. 3D illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of atransport dock 370 with a multi-size docking port 372. In theillustrated embodiment, the transport dock is roughly rectangular shapedwith handles 375 on opposite edges. On the front of the transport dock370 is a multi-sized docking port 372 for different sized handheldmonitors 380, 385, 390. In one configuration, the docking port 372 canfit four small handheld monitors 385. In another configuration, thedocking port 372 can fit two medium handheld monitors 380. In anotherconfiguration, the docking port 372 can fit one large monitor 390. Inanother configuration, the docking port 372 can fit a combination ofsmall 385, medium 385, and/or large handheld monitors 390. As will beapparent, the docking port 372 can be configured to receive differentcombinations and numbers of handheld monitors.

In one embodiment, the transport dock 370 can include multiple dockingports in addition to or instead of a multi-size docking port 372. Forexample, the transport dock 370 can include to one medium sized dockingport and two small sized ports. As will be apparent, differentcombinations and numbers of port sizes may be used.

FIG. 3E illustrates a perspective views of another embodiment of atransport dock 392 with an attached docking arm 395. The docking arm 395can be integrated or detachable from the transport dock. The docking arm395 can be used to attach the transport dock 392 electrically and/ormechanically to a docking station 120.

FIGS. 4A-4F illustrate embodiments of a monitoring tablet. In someembodiments, the monitoring tablet is a transport dock with anintegrated patient monitor.

In FIG. 4A, the tablet 405 is roughly rectangular shaped with handles410 on opposite edges. The display 415 displays one or more parametervalues and/or waveforms of monitored parameters. The tablet 405 can haveone or more controls, such as buttons, dials, or a touch screen. Thetablet 405 can include a wireless transmitter and/or receiver forcommunicating with a physiological sensor, patient monitor and/ordocking station.

FIG. 4B illustrates a monitoring tablet 420 with a handle 410 on oneedge and a docking port 425 for receiving a cable assembly 430 from aphysiological sensor, docking station and/or patient monitor. As will beapparent, the handle 410 and docking port 425 can be located on any sideof the monitoring tablet 420.

FIG. 4C illustrates another embodiment of a monitoring tablet 440. Themonitoring tablet 440 includes handles along two, opposite sides 410.The handles 410 include a textured area 445, comprising bumps,protrusions, a mesh or web, or the like, for providing better grip for auser. In one embodiment, the textured area 445 comprises a rubberizedgrip. The handle 410 can include a docking port 425 for receiving acable assembly 430.

FIG. 4D illustrates an embodiment of the monitoring tablet 440 of FIG.4C with a mounting surface 450 on the back for mounting the tablet 440to a stand 455, mounting arm, or other mounting surface. In oneembodiment, the monitoring tablet 440 attaches to a docking port 135 ofa docking station 120. In one embodiment, the mounting surface 450comprises input, output (I/O) and/or power connections, for example, fordocking with a docking station.

FIGS. 4E-4F illustrate perspective and exploded views, respectively, ofa monitoring tablet embodiment 460 having multiple expansion slots forexpansion modules 465. In one embodiment, the parameters or screen imagethat would ordinarily be displayed on the module displays when undockedare available for viewing in a window, tab, or the like on themonitoring tablet display. For example, there could be a tab on thetablet display that, when touched, causes the parameters or screen imagefrom a module to appear.

FIGS. 5A1-5D illustrate various docking station embodiments capable ofreceiving a transport dock, monitoring tablet, and/or handheld monitor.FIG. 5A1 illustrates the transport dock 370 of FIG. 3D attachablemechanically and/or electrically to a docking station 505 embodiment viaa docking port 510. FIG. 5A2 illustrates an exploded view of theembodiment in FIG. 5A1.

FIG. 5B illustrates a docking station embodiment 520 having dockingports for a monitoring tablet 530 and a transport dock 540. In oneembodiment, the docking station 520 does not include an integratedpatient monitor or display. The transport dock 540 can include multipledocking ports for receiving multiple portable monitors 545. The portablemonitors 545 can be expansion modules with displays to increase theavailable display space. For example, additional portable monitors 545can be added in order to measure and/or monitor additional parameters.In the illustrated embodiment, the docking station 520 is attached to amounting arm.

FIG. 5C illustrates the transport dock 540 of FIG. 5B with a portablemonitor 545 removed from its docking port 550.

FIG. 5D illustrates a docking station embodiment 555 with docking portsfor multiple transport dock 540, 557, multiple types of transport docks,and/or one or more monitoring tablets 530. FIG. 5E illustrates anexploded view of the docking station embodiment 555. In one embodiment,the transport docks 540, 557 can provide docking ports 556 for multipletypes of handheld monitors 545, 560. In one embodiment, the handheld 560is a Radical® or Radical-7™ handheld monitor.

In one embodiment, the docking station 555 operates in tandem or incommunication with a patient monitor 565 or another docking station. Thedocking station 555 can communicate with the patient monitor 555 througha wired or wireless communications medium.

FIG. 6 illustrates a front view of the embodiment of the modular patientmonitor 600 of FIGS. 2H-2J, displaying measurements for parametersacross multiple displays. The multiple displays can be part of one ormore components of the modular patient monitor 600, such as a firstdisplay 601 (e.g. primary or integrated display), one or more portablemonitors 602, 603, and/or one or more expansion modules 605.Measurements can be spanned across the multiple displays, for example,by displaying a partial set of the measurements on the first display 601and additional measurements on a portable monitor 602, 603. In oneembodiment, instant readings, such as current numerical measurements625, 630, can be displayed on one display (e.g. on the portable monitordisplay 625, 630) while measurements over time, such as waveforms 609,615, 617 are displayed on another display (e.g. on the first display 601or on an expansion module 605). Thus, a user can refer to one displayfor a summary of a status of a monitored patient, while referring toanother display for more detailed information. Images 610 derived fromthe patient, such as ultrasound images, thermal images, opticalcoherence tomography (OCT) images can also be displayed on one or moredisplays.

In one embodiment, measurements of the parameters can be organized intodifferent views that are shown on the displays of the patient monitor600. For example, views can include a standard format, a tend-centriclogically grouped format, or an expandable view where measurementscreens are collapsed into a diagram or representation (e.g. the humanbody, brain, lungs, peripheries, or the like) that can be viewed in moredetail by selecting sections of the diagram.

In one embodiment, one portable monitor 602 can be for a one part of thebody, such as the head, measuring parameters for that particular part,(e.g., cerebral oximeter, EEG, core pulse CO-oximetry, pulse oximetry ofthe forehead, ear, or carotid, or the like) while another potablemonitor 603 is for another part of the body, such as the periphery andlungs, and measuring parameters for that second part (e.g., pulseCO-Oximetry or pulse oximetry of the periphery or digit, RAM, ECG, bloodpressure, organ, liver or kidney oximetry, or the like).

Measurements on the display or other portions of the display can behighlighted, colored, flashed, or otherwise visually distinguished inorder to alert or notify users of important or irregular measurements.For example, normal measurements can be displayed in green, abnormal inyellow and critical measurements in red. As discussed above,measurements can be displayed for many different parameters, such asEEG, BP, ECG, temperature, cardiac output, oxygen saturation (SpO₂),pulse rate (PR), perfusion index (PI), signal quality (SiQ), a pulsewaveform (pleth), as well as other parameters.

In some embodiments, a user can select which measurements to display,drop, and/or span using controls 620 on the modular patient monitor 600.The controls 620 can be physical controls (e.g. buttons, switches) orvirtual controls (e.g. touch screen buttons). In some embodiments, themonitor 600 can have an algorithm for selecting measurements to display,drop, and/or span, such as by ranking of measurements, by displaytemplates or by user preferences. In some embodiments, the controls canalter, initiate, suspend or otherwise change the procedures beingperformed on the patient. For example, an anesthesiologist may increasethe level of anesthesia provided to the patient or a doctor can begintherapy treatment by inputting commands through the controls. In oneembodiment, the patient monitor 600 may request identification (e.g.login, password, ID badge, biometrics, or the like) before making anychanges.

FIG. 7 illustrates a general block diagram of an embodiment of aphysiological monitoring family. FIG. 7 illustrates a physiologicalmonitoring family 700 having a handheld monitor 705, a tablet monitor710, a full-sized display 715, a 1×3 module rack or dock 720, a 9×9module rack or dock 725, and corresponding monitor modules 730 (e.g.expansion module or handheld monitor). In some embodiments, one or morecomponents can function, alone or in combination, as a patient monitor.In an embodiment, the monitoring family 700 can be in communication witha sensor array, which can include optical and acoustic sensors formeasuring blood parameters, such as oxygen saturation; and acousticparameters, such as respiration rate; and for body sound monitoring. Inan embodiment, sensor data is transmitted via cables or wirelessly tothe monitors or to local or wide area hospital or medical networks.

In one embodiment, the large display 715 integrates data from a tablet710, hand held 705 or various module monitors 730. In one embodiment,the large display includes a patient monitor and provides a platform foran enhanced situational awareness GUI. A display bracket 735 allowsremovable attachment of various devices, including a 1×3 rack 720 or atablet monitor 710, to name a few. The rack embodiment contains one ormore removable OEM monitor, control or display modules 730. Theseembodiments can function as a multiple parameter monitor having flexibleuser interface and control features. In one embodiment, the tabletmonitor 710 has a removable user interface portion for the monitor (e.g.remote control or other input device) and/or touch screen controls forthe display.

FIGS. 8A-E are top, front, bottom, side and perspective views,respectively, of the handheld monitor embodiment 705 of FIG. 7.

FIGS. 9A-D are top, front, side and perspective views, respectively, ofthe tablet monitor embodiment 710 of FIG. 7.

FIGS. 10A-E are top, front, side, perspective and exploded views,respectively, of the 3×3 rack embodiment 725 of FIG. 7 with mounteddisplay modules. In one embodiment, the mounted display modules aremultiple single parameter monitor modules. In an embodiment, eachremovable module has a wired or wireless network connection (e.g.,802.11, BLUETOOTH or the like), a 4.3″ display and a battery forstandalone operation. This allows each module to be used as a singleparameter transport monitor, as well as used as part of a larger modularpatient monitoring system. In some embodiments, the module mechanicalform and fit and the electrical/electronic interfaces are standardizedto advantageously allow for the integration of OEM acute caremonitoring, control and display technologies into the physiologicalmonitoring family.

FIGS. 11A-E are top perspective, front, side, and exploded views,respectively, of a 1×3 rack embodiment 720 of FIG. 7 with mountedmonitor, control and/or display modules.

FIGS. 12A-D are top, front, side and perspective views, respectively, ofthe large display 715 and display bracket 735 of FIG. 7.

FIGS. 13A-B are perspective and exploded views of another embodiment ofa modular patient monitor 1300. In the illustrated figure, a dockingstation 1303 is attached to a movable mount or arm 1310 on its backside, while its front side comprises multiple docking ports 1320 formultiple monitor modules 1315. The illustrated monitor module 1315includes a cable port on the side that can provide improved cablemanagement. For example, by having the port on the side, sensor cablesthat attach to the monitor can be kept from blocking the display. In oneembodiment, the docking station 1303 can comprise a 3×3 rack withsufficient space between columns to allow cables to run between thecolumns. This can improve organization and cable management for themodular patient monitor 1300. In an embodiment, the docking station 1303is comprised of multiple module racks (e.g. three 1×3 module racks)attached together.

FIG. 13C illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a 1×3 modulerack. The illustrated module rack 1305 includes raised supports 1320 forsupporting and/or attaching to one or more of the edges (e.g. top andbottom) of a handheld monitor or expansion module. The supports 1320 caninclude connections for providing power and/or data communication to thehandheld monitor or expansion module.

FIGS. 14A-B illustrates an embodiment of the monitor module 1315 of FIG.13A-13B used in combination with a single port dock 1405. The dock 1405can include a mounting point for a stand 1410. In one embodiment, themonitor module 1315 can be directly connected to the stand 1410 withoutusing the dock 1405.

FIG. 15 illustrates an embodiment of a single port dock 1505. The dockcan include a docking port 1510 for a module monitor and an attachmentclip or hook 1515. The attachment clip 1515 can be used to attach thedock 1505 to a bed, stand, or other attachment point.

Modular patient monitors, transport docks, and docking stations havebeen disclosed in detail in connection with various embodiments. Theseembodiments are disclosed by way of examples only and are not to limitthe scope of the claims that follow. One of ordinary skill in art willappreciate many variations and modifications. Indeed, the novel methodsand systems described herein can be embodied in a variety of otherforms; furthermore, various omissions, substitutions and changes in theform of the methods and systems described herein can be made withoutdeparting from the spirit of the inventions disclosed herein. The claimsand their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or modificationsas would fall within the scope and spirit of certain of the inventionsdisclosed herein.

One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate the many variations,modifications and combinations possible. For example, the variousembodiments of the patient monitoring system can be used with sensorsthat can measure any type of physiological parameter. In variousembodiments, the displays used can be any type of display, such as LCDs,CRTs, plasma, and/or the like. Further, any number of handheld monitorsand/or expansion modules can be used as part of the patient monitoringsystem. In some embodiments, the expansion modules can be used insteadof handheld monitors and vice versa. Further, in some embodiments,parameters described above as measured by a monitor can be enabled by anexpansion module and/or monitors can have built functionally to monitorparameters described as enabled by an expansion module. In someembodiments, the modular monitoring system 100 can use multiple types ofdocking ports to support various different monitoring components.Embodiments of the transport dock can support any number of handheldmonitors and/or expansion modules, depending on the configuration of thedock.

In certain embodiments, the systems and methods described herein canadvantageously be implemented using computer software, hardware,firmware, or any combination of software, hardware, and firmware. In oneembodiment, the system includes a number of software modules thatcomprise computer executable code for performing the functions describedherein. In certain embodiments, the computer-executable code is executedon one or more computers or processors. However, a skilled artisan willappreciate, in light of this disclosure, that any module that can beimplemented using software can also be implemented using a differentcombination of hardware, software or firmware. For example, such amodule can be implemented completely in hardware using a combination ofintegrated circuits. Alternatively or additionally, such a module can beimplemented completely or partially using specialized computers orprocessors designed to perform the particular functions described hereinrather than by general purpose computers or processors.

Moreover, certain embodiments of the disclosure are described withreference to methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program productsthat can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computerprogram instructions can be provided to a processor of a computer orpatient monitor, special purpose computer, or other programmable dataprocessing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions,which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmabledata processing apparatus, create means for implementing the actsspecified herein to transform data from a first state to a second state.

Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, “can,” “could,”“might,” “may,” “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically statedotherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, isgenerally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, whileother embodiments do not include, certain features, elements and/orstates. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended toimply that features, elements and/or states are in any way required forone or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarilyinclude logic for deciding, with or without author input or prompting,whether these features, elements and/or states are included or are to beperformed in any particular embodiment.

1. A docking station for a modular patient monitoring system, the docking station comprising: a plurality of docking ports for receiving monitoring components, the docking ports forming a mechanical and electrical connection with the monitoring components, the plurality of docking ports interchangeably usable by different monitoring components; a first docking port of the plurality of docking ports, the first docking port capable of receiving a portable monitor, the portable monitor forming a mechanical and electrical connection with the docking station when docked; and a second docking port of the plurality of docking ports, the second docking port capable of receiving an expansion module, the expansion module forming a mechanical and electrical connection with the docking station when docked.
 2. The docking station of claim 1, wherein the portable monitor is attached to the first docking port and the expansion module is attached to the second docking port in a first configuration and wherein the portable monitor is attached to the second docking port and the expansion module is attached to the first docking port in a second configuration.
 3. The docking station of claim 1, wherein the expansion module attaches to a module dock which attaches to the first or second docking port.
 4. The docking station of claim 1, wherein the expansion module provides monitoring of one or more additional parameters, the expansion module allowing a patient monitoring system attached to the docking station to monitor the one or more additional parameters.
 5. The docking station of claim 4, wherein the one or more additional parameter comprises at least one of EEG, BP, ECG, temperature and cardiac output.
 6. The docking station of claim 1, wherein the second docking port is configured to receive the expansion module that is sized at any of a plurality of sizes.
 7. A method for displaying measurements of physiological parameters on a display, the method comprising: receiving patient data on a docking station in communication with a first display; determining a first set of measurements to display with respect to at least a first parameter of the patient data; receiving at least a second set of measurements of a second parameter from an expansion module when the expansion module is plugged into the docking station; and displaying at least the first set and second set of measurements on the first display, wherein the docking station is configured to allow plugging of the expansion module that is sized at any of a plurality of sizes.
 8. The method according to claim 7, wherein the first set or the second set of measurements comprises at least one of a waveform and a numerical value.
 9. The method according to claim 7, wherein the docking station is configured to allow plugging of a plurality of expansion modules simultaneously.
 10. The method according to claim 9, wherein the plurality of expansion modules are differently sized.
 11. A method for displaying measurements of physiological parameters on a display, the method comprising: receiving patient data on a docking station in communication with a first display; determining one or more first measurements for at least one parameter from the patient data; displaying the first measurements on the first display; receiving an expansion module on a docking port of the docking system, the expansion module capable of measuring at least one additional parameter; determining, through the expansion module, one or more second measurements for the at least one additional parameter; and displaying the second measurements on the first display.
 12. The method according to claim 11, wherein the first and second measurements comprise at least one of a waveform and a numerical value.
 13. The method according to claim 11, wherein at least one of the first measurements is different from the second measurements.
 14. The method according to claim 11, wherein the docking port is configured to allow plugging of the expansion module that is sized at any of a plurality of sizes
 15. The method according to claim 14, wherein the docking port is configured to allow plugging of a plurality of expansion modules simultaneously.
 16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the plurality of expansion modules are differently sized. 